Basic Tomato Sauce
AI-generated image
Vegan Gluten-free Global

Basic Tomato Sauce

A dependable, slowly simmered tomato sauce with olive oil, onion, garlic, and a balanced finish. Use it for pasta, pizza, baked vegetables, or as a foundation for more elaborate sauces.

50 min 6 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Heat 20 ml of the olive oil in a wide saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the onion and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft, translucent, and lightly sweet-smelling without browning.
2
Add the sliced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not colored. Stir in the oregano and cook for 30 seconds to release its aroma.
3
Add the tomatoes and their juices, then crush the tomatoes with a wooden spoon. Season with the salt and black pepper and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring every 8 to 10 minutes, until the sauce is thick enough to briefly expose the bottom of the pan when stirred.
Thick tomato sauce showing a clean path when stirred AI-generated image
5
Taste the sauce. If it is noticeably sharp, stir in the optional sugar; otherwise leave it out. Continue cooking for 2 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat.
6
Stir in the torn basil and the remaining 10 ml olive oil. Rest for 5 minutes, then taste and adjust the salt before serving or cooling for storage.

Why this recipe works

Sweating the onion and garlic in olive oil builds a sweet aromatic base, while a patient uncovered simmer concentrates the tomatoes without requiring added sugar. Finishing with olive oil and basil keeps the sauce rounded and fresh.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Cool the sauce promptly, refrigerate it in a covered container for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Leave room for expansion when freezing.

How to reheat it

Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until steaming hot throughout. Add a splash of water if it has thickened too much.

Nutrition / serving

82kcal
1.87 gprotein
9.74 gcarbs
4.81 gfat
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Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 21 Aug 2026 · updated 21 Aug 2026